NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Lipscomb faithful will get their first look at the new brand of Lipscomb men’s basketball on Thursday night as Casey Alexander’s squad takes Don Meyer Court for the first time hosting long-time rival Freed-Hardeman for an exhibition tilt.

The Bisons and Lions are set to battle for the 109th time in the history of the storied series that tips off at 6 p.m. at Allen Arena. Fans who want to stay high and dry and avoid the rain that is forecast for the Nashville area can get free admission by wearing a costume. There will be trick or treating available throughout the arena concourse during halftime of the contest.

“Everybody at this point of the year is ready after a long preseason is ready to go and ready for something new,” said Lipscomb head coach Casey Alexander. “We’re ready to do what matters most and that’s play the games and see how many of them we can win.”

Last year’s battle between the two squads saw the Bisons come out on top 99-84. Lipscomb posted six players in double figures including returners Khion Sankey, Malcolm Smith, Martin Smith and J.C. Hampton. In all, nine members of the 2013-14 squad saw action against the Lions last season.

“We’ve had so many players in and out of practice nursing minor and major injuries, so that will determine who we throw out there to actually start the game, “ said Alexander. “But I would expect everybody to play. We want to give everybody an opportunity to show where they are and what they can do.

“I hope our fans will see that we play really hard and that we play hard together,” said Alexander. “It’s going to be a fun team to watch. We’re obviously not a finished product but nobody is at this point and time. The effort takes you where you want to go most often, so that’s the bottom line for us is to make sure we get that.”

With the World Series over, the game will air on the new home for Bison basketball 94.9 Game 2. Jonathan Seamon will be joined by color analyst Jay Walton and studio host Jared Revlett on the call.

Tickets (If you can’t find a costume) are $13 for adult reserved seating and $5 for kids ages 12 and under. Those with a valid military ID receive complimentary admission. To purchase tickets, logon to http://www.LipscombTickets.com or call 615-966-4373.